Studying in Germany - Non-EU Citizens

Prerequisites for studying for non-EU citizens

To study in Germany, you need a secondary school-leaving certificate that is recognized as corresponding to the German "Abitur." You can find out if your diploma is recognized in Germany in the database of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs.

If your secondary school diploma is recognized as corresponding to the German Abitur, you can apply directly to a German institution for higher education. If this is not the case, the Studienkollegs provide the possibility to achieve the prerequisites for ongoing study in your chosen field through targeted preparation.

In addition, good German language skills at least at reference level C1 are required. This can be certified via language exams like TestDaF or DSH.

Most non-EU citizens will also need a visa. Furthermore, you need to prove that you are covered by health insurance, and that you can finance your cost of living for the duration of your studies.

You can learn more about the individual costs and requirements for study, here.

"Study Application Visa" and "Student Visa"

Non-EU citizens need a visa to study in Germany. There are, however, a few exceptions, for example for citizens from Switzerland, Australia, Canada, New Zeeland, and the U.S.A.

In most cases a so-called Study Application Visa is initially issued, which is valid for three months. This is always issued in the case that there is not yet an acceptance from an institution of higher education or from a "Studienkolleg". The visa should be applied for in a timely manner from the German Embassy or a German Consulate in your home country.

After acceptance into an institution of higher education, the Study Application Visa is converted into a Student Visa. Please do not apply for a Tourist Visa, as this cannot be converted into a Student Visa.

A Student Visa is valid for one year and can be renewed annually. The requirement for renewal is the continuing right to study at an institution of higher education or at a Studienkolleg. Furthermore, you need proof of health insurance, and that you can financially support yourself throughout your studies.

Study requirements for EU Citizens

To study in Germany, EU citizens need a secondary school-leaving certificate that is recognized as corresponding to the German "Abitur." For EU citizens as a rule, this is the same school-leaving certificate that would allow them to pursue further studies in their home country. You can find out if your diploma is recognized in Germany in the database of the Standing Conference of the Ministers of Education and Cultural Affairs.

If your secondary school diploma is recognized as corresponding to the German Abitur, you can apply directly to a German institution for higher education. If your diploma is not recognized in Germany for admission to such an institution, the Studienkollegs provide the possibility to achieve the prerequisites for ongoing study in your chosen field through targeted preparation.

In addition, German language skills at least at reference level C1 are required. This can be certified via language exams like the TestDaF or DSH.

Upon in arrival in Germany, you need to register at the local residents registration office in your city and apply for a Freedom of Movement Certificate. To receive this certificate, you need to prove you are covered by health insurance, and that you can finance your cost of living for the duration of your studies.

Citizens from the European Free Trade Association, Island, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland, have the same rights for studying in Germany as EU citizens do.